The Ministries of Solid Minerals and Steel Development celebrated the 2024 Customer Service Week in grand style with the theme, “Above and Beyond,” on Thursday, October 17, at the Ministers’ Conference Room, Abuja. Highlighting the Ministries dedication to exceptional service, the event honored twenty-three (23) outstanding staff members for their remarkable contributions, recognizing those who have consistently gone the extra mile in delivering superior service and upholding the Ministries’ values.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Steel Development, Dr. Chris Isokpunwu, addressed the audience with a keynote address on the theme “Above and Beyond,” characterizing it as a direct appeal to the core of civil service.Hphasizing that every civil servant, regardless of their role, carries the responsibility of service, which goes beyond personal recognition. He said:

“To serve in the civil service is to commit to a purpose greater than ourselves. Our work is not for individual accolades, but for the collective progress of society. Each day, through dedication across departments, we build the trust that bridges the gap between government and the citizens.”

The Permanent Secretary congratulated the recipients and noted that their work exemplified the best standards of public service. He said:

“We honor people today who have gone above and beyond and who personify the values of excellence, integrity, and dedication. Their output bears witness to the mindset behind the Ministries. The events of today also serve as a reminder that, despite your perceptions to the contrary, people are always keeping track of your accomplishments and that, in the end, recognition will come.”

Millions of Nigerians are impacted by the policies and programs that the Permanent Secretary described as the foundation of the country’s development. He pointed out that civil servants are essential to the planning, development, and implementation of policies that affect multiple sectors and the lives of millions of Nigerians. He reminded the Ministries’ employees that their work transcends personal benefit and emphasized the value of dedication, noting that they have been entrusted with the enormous responsibility of
bolstering the goals of the Ministries and promoting the development and welfare of the country.

The Minister of Solid Minerals and Steel Development’s cooperation with other sectors in promoting economic stability and national growth was also emphasized by him.

Dr. Isokpunwu reminded the staff that true success is found in the impact one makes on others, and he encouraged them to take inspiration from the award winners. He pushed others to aim for comparable recognition in the future and urged all employees to continue being unwavering in their dedication to public service. He advised the winners to view their honor as a springboard for even bigger accomplishments rather than the conclusion of their journey:

“I hope this marks the start of a new challenge for the recipients. Do not give in to the pressure of working hard just for the attention of others. Even when nobody is looking, uphold your moral principles and keep doing well.”

The Permanent Secretary conveyed his appreciation to the Reform and Service Improvement Department personnel for their ongoing endeavors to improve service provision throughout the Ministries. He pointed out that their job is to lead by example and produce outcomes by providing exceptional service, not to impose their will on others.

During his speech, SERVICOM Director Mr. Victor Ewache emphasized the importance of Customer Service Week every year, saying that it is a special time in October to honor exceptional service. The theme of the event, “Above and Beyond,” he said, aptly encapsulates its spirit and inspires civil servants to keep pushing for excellence in their public service.

Speaking to the recipients, he challenged them to consider the meaning behind the honor and to consider why they were chosen out of all of their departmental peers. He emphasized:

“It is inappropriate to minimize the celebration. Your diligence, moral character, and dedication to service are demonstrated by this award. Take it as motivation to soar to even higher heights.”

The Permanent Secretaries of the Ministries, the CEO and National Coordinator of SERVICOM, and the Directors of the Ministries who graced the occasion with their presence and support were all deeply appreciated by the Director. He praised their contributions and leadership in improving service delivery throughout the Ministries. He pointed out that their contributions have been crucial in developing an atmosphere that encourages commitment, creativity, and professionalism among the employees.